Around Lake Shiman × Nature Experience AccommodationRecommended Hotel·Ryokan

[Awarded TripAdvisor Japan’s Top 25 Ryokan for Five Consecutive Years] Step through the small gate lit by amber lanterns and you’ll be embraced by the warmth of beautifully polished wood. Surrender to a gentle sense of nostalgia, unwind at your own pace, and let your mind be set free—Shima Onsen Kaigen, a serene hidden retreat in the quiet forests of Shima.

An accommodation close to the sky, located in the highest area and innermost part of Shima Onsen within Joshin'etsu National Park. Enjoy the pure air, chirping birds, rich nature, and high-quality onsen water from four natural sources (all rooms equipped with private onsen baths), offering a rejuvenating experience for both body and mind.

Since its establishment in Genroku 7 (1694), "Sekizenkan" has welcomed guests for over 300 years, with a constant flow of visitors seeking Onsen therapy. The Property features three distinct buildings: the "Main Building," known as the oldest Onsen inn architecture in Japan, where the culture of Onsen therapy still thrives; the "Sansou," designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan for its excellent design and architectural techniques in the Momoyama style; and the "Kashoutei," located at the highest point in Shima Onsen, surrounded by the tranquility of ancient pine trees. At Sansou and Kashoutei, guests can savor exquisite kaiseki cuisine prepared by the head chef. Enjoy a variety of Onsen experiences, including the retro-modern "Genroku no Yu" and the seasonal "Mori no Yu."

A hot spring hotel nestled in a serene 330,000-square-meter retreat surrounded by clear streams. Enjoy the renowned skin-beautifying hot springs with rooms featuring open-air baths, private baths, and access to sister properties for a delightful hot spring hopping experience! Dinner includes a buffet of over 50 Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes. Savor freshly grilled beef steak and tempura prepared live at the kitchen station.

Set beside the scenic Shima River Gorge, with views of Fusen-kyo Gorge—also known for its brilliant autumn foliage—ShimaBlue is a secluded retreat in the mountains. With the soothing sounds of the Shima River nearby, this is Shima Onsen’s first private cottage property featuring open-air Onsen baths, offering seven distinctive spaces to relax and enjoy the renowned waters of Shima Onsen.The seven guest cottages each feature their own uniquely designed private open-air Onsen bath. Lined up along the river, they offer an airy terrace where the gentle murmur of flowing water creates a calming atmosphere. Dining includes our signature barbecue showcasing carefully selected ingredients from Gunma Prefecture, along with a wide selection of local craft beer, wine, and more. Surrounded by the beautiful nature of the Shima River—beloved as “Shima Blue”—enjoy an unforgettable villa-style stay filled with scenery, cuisine, and local blessings.

At this accommodation nestled in the land of Shima, you can experience the warmth of traditional onsen and enjoy the spiritual waters of Shima Onsen. Rooms range from 6 to 10 tatami mats, with spacious two-room suites, Japanese-Western style rooms, and highly recommended rooms with private open-air baths. Relax in uniquely designed rooms at your leisure. A large public bath is also available to soothe your travel fatigue. Enjoy a tranquil bathing experience in a serene atmosphere.

We take pride in our Onsen, a variety of baths, and handmade cuisine crafted without relying on pre-made products (limited to a set number per day). Guests can enjoy five private baths at no additional charge. All baths feature free-flowing Onsen water. You are welcome to use the hinoki wood family bath or the stone family bath freely. The natural Onsen water is colorless, odorless, and sourced directly from our private spring on-site, flowing continuously (free-flowing source). Notably, Gennoyu and Koshiburo Ichinoyu are supplied directly through natural gravity as they are located lower than the spring source. Please note that as this is a wooden building, there is no elevator; guests will need to use stairs. Meals are served in the dining area. For stays of three nights or more, meals from the third night onward will repeat the menu from the first and second nights. We regret that we cannot accommodate changes to meal content (including allergies or preferences). All rooms and indoor areas are non-smoking, including electronic cigarettes.